Life Coaching

Life coaching comes from the perspective that we are all fundamentally creative and whole and that the "client" - referred to as "coachee" - is their own expert in life. The aim of coaching is to encourage self-discovery of authentic solutions and strategies which promote growth and forward movement in life. The Coach is there to reflect back each person's inner resources and to hold the coachee responsible and accountable in the self-directed change process. Once new possibilities are uncovered, the Coach helps the coachee build actionable plans for the desired outcome. It does not prescribe, diagnose, recommend, or treat anything. Instead, coaching is a co-creative partnership that uses inquiry and powerful questioning to invoke insights into challenging life situations and generate new solutions. Reflection on values and needs are emphasized with an eye on not only what a person wants to do but who they want to be in life, and what character traits they want to embody. It differs from other types of help which may advise, instruct, or mentor because coaching has the fundamental approach of "the client knows best" and the fact that the coach does not play the role of "expert" on the coachee's life. Coaching uses techniques from personal development, psychology, social sciences, adult learning theory, organizational, contemplative and evidence-based techniques. Life coaches may specialize in specific areas such as Life Transitions, Career, Spiritual, ADHD, Business/Executive, or Health. Coaches may hold a certain philosophical view and use varied methods such as Transformational coaching or Positive Psychology coaching. What to expect: A series of discussions are held in either individual or group settings with the frequency determined by desired goals. While in-person is usually available, coaching lends itself to phone or Video chats easily and can be done from far away. The Coach will provide a safe space and ask multiple questions, allowing time for reflection and dialogue so that the coachee feels supported in making their own decisions. Additional resources : http://www.coachfederation.org/need/landing.cfm?ItemNumber=978&navItemNumber=567